10 Ways to Use Oil of Oregano

We all know oregano as the humble herb used to add extra flavor to pizzas, pasta, and even salad. But there’s so much more to the oregano plant than just a tasty topping. The wild oregano plant, which grows naturally in the remote mountainous regions of the Mediterranean, is a member of the mint family. The leaves and flowers of the plant are harvested when the oil content is at its highest and used to make what we know as oil of oregano, or oregano oil.

Nature’s Antibiotic

Oil of oregano is pretty remarkable in that it’s known as being nature’s antibiotic. It can kill bacteria, fungus, yeast, parasites and viruses, and is quickly becoming a popular alternative to common antibiotics, without the unwanted side effects. It’s also a powerful anti-inflammatory and pain killer, antiseptic, and preservative which can halt the growth of microbes. Dr. Cass Ingram, in his book The Cure Is In The Cupboard, lists over 170 conditions for which oil of oregano can be useful in treating, including eczema, diarrhea, sinusitis, and can even reduce the effects of measles and mumps.

How to Use Oil of Oregano

*Oil of oregano should be diluted prior to use.
For topical application: Make a 50/50 mixture of oregano oil and olive oil and store in a dropper bottle to use as directed below.
For internal application: Mix 1 to 5 drops in milk, water or juice and drink as directed below.

1. Alleviate Migraine/Sinus Headaches: Rub the 50/50 mixture on the temples and forehead, between the eyebrows, or on the sides of the nose. Be careful not to get it into your eyes. It can also be sniffed full strength from the bottle to allow the fumes to get up into the sinuses and head.
2. Insect Bites & Stings: Apply 50/50 mixture to bites and stings to help neutralize and pull out toxins, and help them heal.
3. Burns: For painful and blistered burns, mix 1 drop of oregano oil into 1 teaspoon of olive oil and apply gently to the affected area. If applied immediately, it can prevent blisters from forming.
4. Toothaches & Mouth Sores: Rub 50/50 mixture around the infected tooth or gums to pull out toxins and reduce pain. If mixture is too strong, dilute with more olive oil.
5. Digestion: Oil of oregano helps to stimulate the flow of bile, which aids in digestion. To relieve digestive problems, take oregano oil internally 1 to 3 times a day.
6. Skin Infections: Mix 1 drop of oregano oil into 1 teaspoon of olive oil and apply to itches and skin infections.
7. Colds & Sore Throats: Take 3 drops internally once per day, for up to 5 days until symptoms are gone.
8. Ear Infections: Rub 50/50 mixture around the outside of the ear. May need to be diluted more for younger children. Never put oil of oregano directly into the ear canal.
9. Laryngitis: Use internally or by rubbing 50/50 mixture on the chest or throat. You may also heat water with oregano oil and inhale the vapours to help kill bacteria and ease the throat.
10. Warts: Mix 1 drop of oregano oil into 1 teaspoon of olive oil and apply directly to the wart and cover with a bandage. Add more oil and replace the bandage every day for up to 1 to 2 weeks.

Side Effects and Cautions

While oil of oregano is not dangerous in itself, it can have side effects that should be noted and considered prior to use. As always, please consult your doctor before starting any long term regimen.

• It may affect the body’s ability to absorb iron, so an iron supplement should be taken along with any regular internal oregano oil regimen.
• Pregnant women are not advised to use oregano oil since it may cause bleeding, especially for those in early pregnancy or prone to miscarriages.
• People with allergies to mint, thyme, sage, or any other member of the mint family should take precaution and discontinue use immediately if rash, irritation, or vomiting occur during use.

Where to Buy Oil of Oregano

Oil of Oregano can be purchased from any health food store, like Health Planet. This month, Healthy Planet has the high quality Hedd Wyn Oil of Oregano on sale for 15% off, until April 3rd, 2013!

Have you used oil of oregano before to treat any ailments? What would you add to this list?

Sources:
Oil of Oregano: A Powerhouse for the Alternative Medicine Cabinet – Natural News
Oil of Oregano – Healing Naturally By Bee
5 More Uses of Oregano Oil! – Natural Factors
Oil of Oregano Health Benefits – Home Remedies Web

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About the Author:

Sarah UmmYousef is a former school teacher turned stay-at-home wife and mama with a passion for all things simple, natural, and homemade. She loves the natural world, and believes the solutions to many of the world’s ailments lie in nature. Her blog, Nature’s Nurture, began as a way to document her family’s journey to a greener home, but has since become a thriving community and resource for those wishing to take small steps towards a more eco-friendly, natural and sustainable lifestyle. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Pinterest.

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